Certificate of Achievement in Financial Planning

For Certificate of Achievement in Financial Planning, applications for the Sep 2027 intake are open until Sep 1, 2027, while tuition is Estimated total tuition: $6,704 for international students.

This certificate program at Bow Valley College prepares you for the Qualified Associate Financial Planner (QAFP) or Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designations. You will study financial markets, investment funds, and personal financial planning through four core courses. The curriculum covers essential topics like investment products, financial planning strategies, and regulatory requirements in Canada.

The program is delivered over two terms and is designed for domestic students only. Courses are credit-bearing and transferable into the Financial Services Diploma. You will learn through structured coursework with assessments aligned to industry standards. Successful completion meets FP Canada's educational requirements for QAFP and CFP certification exams.

To enter the program, you need a credit in English Language Arts 30-1 or 65% in English Language Arts 30-2, plus Math 30-1 or Math 30-2. Alternative pathways include GED scores or placement testing. International students are not eligible. The program starts in May and September 2026.

Bow Valley College in downtown Calgary provides a student-centered, career-focused education designed for practical outcomes. Founded in 1965, the college emphasizes small classes, applied learning and strong support services, serving a diverse community with programs aligned to local and global labour needs. Its compact urban location gives students access to Calgary’s business and cultural scene while benefiting from a close-knit campus atmosphere.

Programs at Bow Valley prioritize employability through practicum placements, industry-relevant curricula and active partnerships with employers. Faculty and staff bring real-world experience to the classroom, and the college’s high graduate employment rate reflects its commitment to career-ready training. Support services, language instruction and workshops ensure students develop both technical skills and the intercultural competencies needed to succeed in multicultural workplaces.

International students will find resources to help with transition, including advising, orientation and opportunities to engage in volunteer and campus activities that build networks and professional experience. The college’s focus on affordability and transfer pathways also makes it attractive for those planning further study in Canada. If you want a practical, supportive environment with direct links to employment, Bow Valley College offers a purposeful route to skills, credentials and local industry connections.